New Zealand is a paddler's paradise, and pretty much anywhere with water nearby has somewhere you can rent either canoes or kayaks.

Sometimes this is simply an opportunity to muck around in boats but often there is some kind of instruction or guided trips available, with the emphasis being on learning new skills and soaking up the scenery.

Grade II water is pretty much the limit for novices, making the scenic Whanganui River a perennial favourite. Despite its riverine nature, the Whanganui Journey (3-5 days) operates as a Great Walk and special arrangements apply to access and accommodation ; several companies rent out all the necessary gear, often including the DOC hut passes as part of their all-inclusive price. Far shorter trips down similar water are run on the Matukituki River near Wanaka and the Dart River from Glenorchy.

Casual paddlers are much more likely to find themselves sea kayaking the near-landlocked harbours in Northland or the bays along the Abel Tasman Coastal Path; a perfect way to experience New Zealand's magnificent coastline and to encounter dolphins and seals.